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C h e c k o u t A B M P 's l a t e s t n e w s a n d b l o g p o s t s . Av a i l a b l e a t w w w. a b m p . c o m . 71 has been cut found that the trigger point persists. This suggests a trigger point, once formed, is a local phenomenon and is not mediated by the central nervous system.) Myofascial Meridians One further example of using science to improve assessment and treatment skills is to understand the relationship of muscles in what are known as myofascial meridians (described and popularized in Thomas Myers's excellent book Anatomy Trains: Myofascial Meridians for Manual & Movement Therapists, 3rd ed.). A myofascial meridian is a continuity of myofascial tissues across the body. For example, the superficial back line myofascial meridian is composed of the plantar fascia, Achilles tendon, gastrocnemius, hamstrings, sacrotuberous ligament, thoracolumbar fascia, and paraspinal musculature into the epicranial fascia of the head (Image 13). Therefore, it is possible for tension in any part of the meridian to transfer to distant reaches of the meridian. One example of this is the relationship between the hamstrings and the SIJ. Given the connection via the sacrotuberous ligament, tight hamstrings on one side of the body could pull on the sacrum on that side, thereby decreasing motion of that SIJ. Therefore, if a hypomobile SIJ is found, perhaps one of the possible causes to investigate and assess would be tight hamstrings on that side. It is an understanding of the science that allows us to know to look for these connections in the body. CONCLUSION There is no doubt that integrating science with hands-on skills is critically important to nearly all aspects of orthopedic assessment and treatment. Although a number of examples were given to inform this conversation, they are but a few of the many, many examples that could have been presented. A clear understanding of the science of myofascial tissue could and should inform most every aspect of manual therapy. Integrating science with hands-on assessment and treatment techniques empowers the therapist to think critically and, therefore, creatively apply the techniques that will best benefit the client on the table. It could be said that good hands, along with a good mind, create a great manual therapist. Joseph E. Muscolino, DC, has been a massage therapy educator for more than 25 years and is the author of numerous textbooks on manual therapy including The Muscle and Bone Palpation Manual (Elsevier, 2016), Kinesiology (Elsevier, 2006), The Muscular System Manual (Elsevier, 2010), Low Back Therapy for the Manual Therapist (Lippincott Williams & Wilkins, 2015), and Advanced Treatment Techniques for the Manual Therapist: Neck (Lippincott Williams & Wilkins, 2013). He is also the author of numerous DVDs on manual therapy treatment and teaches continuing education workshops across the United States and overseas, including a certification in Clinical Orthopedic Manual Therapy (COMT). Visit www.learnmuscles.com for more information. INTEGRATING SCIENCE WITH TECHNIQUE A 13 The superficial back line myofascial meridian reaches from the foot to the head. Muscolino, Joseph E. The Muscular System Manual, 4th ed. (to be released in early 2016) Elsevier, 2017. Artwork by Giovanni Rimasti. Modeled from a figure by Thomas Myers : Anatomy Trains, 3rd ed. Churchill Livingstone, 2014.